Panthers Greg Hardy Looking For “Big Contract” In Free Agency

Greg Hardy is looking to get paid, and there’s no getting around that.

Hardy, a sixth-round pick in 2010, is coming off a franchise-record four-sack game against Atlanta, which gave him 15 sacks for the season.

That tied the Panthers’ record established by outside linebacker Kevin Greene in 1998. Hardy, who has been playing for cheap, told the Charlotte Observer that he’s “looking for a big number” in free agency.

“It’s all about the numbers with me. I don’t really have an end game to where I want to hustle or play around or play the market,” Hardy said. “I want a big number that I worked for, nothing imaginary. And if you don’t believe me, tell me what you want me to do and I’ll go do it for you. And then give me my number and we’ll be good.”

Hardy said he would not be opposed to a franchise tag, which was worth $11.175 million last year for defensive ends.

“I would love a franchise, man. Add another year on my career,” Hardy said. “Get to play football a little bit longer without a contract, another year to be in Carolina to give them a chance to get their fiscal responsibilities in order so we can be here forever like Steve (Smith) and a lot of other guys like Thomas (Davis).”